Tyson Fury is not giving up hope on fighting Oleksandr Usyk for a third time despite the Ukrainian brutally snubbing his longtime rival

Oleksandr Usyk has plans to return to cruiserweight for his next fight - but longtime rival Tyson Fury is not buying it.

The Ukrainian had relinquished his titles earlier this year, but still had plans to stay at heavyweight. Usyk was eyeing up a farewell fight against Deontay Wilder in 2027, but talks fell through. He also also expressed interest in a third meeting with Fury - despite beating the Morecambe brawler twice in 2024.

Fury has long called for a third clash with Usyk and has insisted he should have won the previous two encounters. The 'Gypsy King' will return to the ring next month when he takes on Anthony Joshua. Usyk's future remains up in the air but is expected to fight next year.

And he is hoping for a potential showdown with undefeated sensation David Benavidez. Usyk recently told DAZN: “I cleaned out heavyweight and now I’ll go back to my weight. Now [I weigh] 96/97kg. Today there is change at heavyweight, if I have an opportunity at cruiserweight, I’m back. It’s a big fight because Benavidez is a big champion. When I have an opportunity, I take this opportunity. This is life.”

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Fury, though, is not convinced and is adamant that the Ukrainian will only fight again if he is the one standing across the ring from him. Speaking to Michelle Joy Phelps, he said: "I do not think that is going to happen (Usyk moving down to cruiserweight). If it is not me then Oleksandr Usyk will not be fighting again. Definitely not.

"I just think he wants a big payday and I am the man to give him that. Whether he does or not… I do not know. I cannot see him dropping down to fight (David) Benavidez. And I cannot see him fighting random fighters for no money. Not at 40 years of age (fighting for the glory of the titles). You are fighting for the glory of the paycheque.

Fury has been handed some hope that a trilogy could come to fruition after holding talks with Usyk recently. The Brit offered the Ukrainian the chance to fill in for Joshua should something happen, but Usyk declined.

The 39-year-old is currently enjoying time with his family, but is targeting a potential return in March. “I actually spoke with Oleksandr to say ‘if Joshua does not fight, we will do it.’ And he said he was busy," Fury said. "He has gone on holiday with his family, but he could do a fight in March. So, maybe we do that in March."